Fenerbahce Complain After Fred Plays Despite Doping Claims

European football’s governing body has confirmed it is investigating Tuesday’s Champions League third qualifying round first-leg tie, which finished 0-0.

Fred, 22, tested positive for a banned diuretic at the recent Copa America in Chile, reports in Brazil alleged.

Shakhtar coach Mircea Lucescu admitted Uefa had advised him not to play Fred.

The player faces a ban should a second sample confirm the reported findings of the first test.

Uefa’s letter in response to Fenerbahce’s protest

“Before the game, Uefa advised us not to include him but we had not received any official documents and this was just a verbal recommendation,” Lucescu said.

“There is no specific statement on this matter for now and we are still waiting for the results of the B sample.”

He added: “I have talked to the team and the player personally. When the official decision arrives, of course, we will stick to it.”

Shakhtar host Fenerbahce in the second leg of their tie on 5 August with the winners advancing to the Champions League play-off round for a place in the group stage.

Uefa’ s control, ethics and disciplinary body will decide the outcome of the protest on 3 August.

Called up for the injured Luiz Gustavo, Fred played in Brazil’s opening two fixtures at the Copa America but was dropped for the final group game against Venezuela and quarter-final defeat by Paraguay.

SHARE THE FEELING

Nigeria’s First Visual Radio Station

#Urban96FM is the social network radio, heavily dependent on conversation starting off or continuing on social networks. Conscious and in tune with city mood, if there's anything to commiserate or celebrate, we are there live to feel the PULSE of the city and her read more

News in ‘Ur Mail. On The House.

Sign up for a daily newsletter full of things to discuss over drinks. And the great thing is that it’s on the house!